The Daishonin encourages us, "Strive ever harder in faith, (and never give in to negligence.)”* It's through chanting daimoku with unyielding determination and taking courageous action with an indomitable spirit that we move the buddhas and gods. With perseverance and the unity of our camaraderie, let’s open the way for the SGI movement to fully bloom!

*Letter to Niike - WND 1, page 1027

Translation of "To My Friends" published in the Seikyo Shimbun, based on President Ikeda's recent guidance with universal value and application

Taking action is the heart of Buddhism. Dynamically, let's put our faith into action! When we meet with others and share this philosophy of life, our spirits rise and our life condition is elevated. Today, again, let’s take a courageous step forwards!

Translation of "To My Friends" published in the Seikyo Shimbun, based on President Ikeda's recent guidance with universal value and application

Let’s be careful not to cause a car accident! When we are tired or careless, devils (negative functions in the universe) can take advantage when our guard is down. By reminding each other of this point, let’s put safety as our top priority when driving!

Translation of "To My Friends" published in the Seikyo Shimbun, based on President Ikeda's recent guidance with universal value and application

Pioneering new horizons for kosen-rufu - the very mission of Hokkaido, where Soka Gakkai's first three presidents have such profound ties. With the momentum of a lion's ferocity, let’s all courageously help as many people as possible to form a connection with this Buddhism! Let's adorn this spring with blossoms of benefit and good fortune.Translation of "To My Friends" published in the Seikyo Shimbun, based on President Ikeda's recent guidance with universal value and application

The more effort a leader tries to make by chanting daimoku and taking action, the more successfully their organisation develops. Let’s try to meet each member and offer them our sincerest encouragement and so build a strong bond of trust between each other.

Translation of "To My Friends" published in the Seikyo Shimbun, based on President Ikeda's recent guidance with universal value and application

To all of our fellow members in Great Kyushu,* whose spirits are burning with the shared vow of mentor and disciple, be the proud and dignified forerunners roaring like lion kings! Let triumphant shouts ring out throughout the Land of Fire!

*Kyushu is the southernmost of the four main islands of Japan. It is well known for its numerous active volcanoes and is called the “Land of Fire”.

Translation of "To My Friends" published in the Seikyo Shimbun, based on President Ikeda's recent guidance with universal value and application

To all of our fellow members in the Shin-etsu Region, home of the mountain range of capable and talented people, let’s all stand up bravely and without any fears! By hoisting the banner of "courage" high, let's aim towards a glorious winning goal together, with the perfect unity of “Many in Body, One in Mind!”

Translation of "To My Friends" published in the Seikyo Shimbun, based on President Ikeda's recent guidance with universal value and application

It's springtime, the time to converse with others! Let’s get out and about with lighthearted steps! And to those who are about to start a new school, grade or job, let’s offer them words of encouragement just like a warm spring breeze. Let’s all live out our lives boldly and with confidence!

Translation of "To My Friends" published in the Seikyo Shimbun, based on President Ikeda's recent guidance with universal value and application

Words that earnestly wish for our friends’ happiness and which are sincerely caring definitely touch and move their hearts. The Daishonin states, "The voice carries out the work of the Buddha."* With strong conviction and confidence, let’s continue to talk about this Buddhism with others!

*The Record of the Orally Transmitted Teachings, page 4

Translation of "To My Friends" published in the Seikyo Shimbun, based on President Ikeda's recent guidance with universal value and application

The momentum for the development and expansion that will rock the era is created right where we are holding and doing activities. In particular it is the constant dedicated efforts of our noble block/group leaders that are the very driving force for our victories!

Translation of "To My Friends" published in the Seikyo Shimbun, based on President Ikeda's recent guidance with universal value and application